Strategy

The development process began with a comprehensive analysis of both existing interface performance and competitor solutions. This research was integrated with Pillar's identity guidelines to ensure brand consistency. We conducted extensive studies of Windows environment conventions and industry-standard representations of complex storage management concepts to inform our design decisions.

Project Challenges

1. Technical Language Mastery. Developing fluency in enterprise IT terminology was essential. Understanding the nuanced differences between Storage Domains, Volumes, and Consistency Groups enabled accurate visual representation.

2. Visual Translation. Converting complex technical concepts into immediately recognizable icons that resonate with IT professionals while maintaining clarity and precision.

3. Industry Integration. Seamlessly incorporating new iconography with established industry standards to ensure intuitive user experience.

4. System Cohesion. Creating a unified visual language that maintains consistency across all interface elements.

5. Space Optimization. Adapting complex visual information to fit within an 18x18 pixel canvas while maintaining clarity, particularly challenging when transitioning from larger 32x32 formats.

Micro-Icon Design

Our solution to size constraints was a modular design system that maintained clarity across scales. Complex functionality was represented through carefully composed compound icons, with each element optimized for both primary and secondary positions within the composition.

To meet enterprise requirements, we prioritized functional clarity over stylistic flourishes. The design aligns with Windows XP's enterprise aesthetic, employing selective use of highlights, shadows, and isometric perspective only where necessary for clear communication of volume and dimensionality.

The technical challenge of rendering precise visual information within severe space constraints required innovative approaches to anti-aliasing and pixel hinting. Working at this scale, up to 50% of each icon's pixels are dedicated to edge smoothing, demanding meticulous attention to detail for optimal clarity.

Interface Evolution: Navigation and Space Utilization Interface Evolution: Icon System Development Interface Evolution: Volume Management Visualization

Color Strategy

Systematic color implementation enhances icon recognition within complex compound arrangements.

The color strategy balances continuity with previous systems and enhanced visual clarity. We maintained established conventions like blue for SAN and green for NAS while expanding the palette to support our compound icon system. Accessibility was prioritized through careful value differentiation, ensuring distinctiveness for users with color vision deficiencies.

Our iterative design process included over 30 formal usability studies with system administrators, current customers, and sales engineers. This comprehensive feedback loop informed continuous refinements to icon design and interface layout, achieving an optimal balance between familiar patterns for existing users and enhanced functionality for complex operations.

Compound Icon System

To effectively communicate complex system states, we developed a modular icon system that combines multiple elements into cohesive units. For example, the CMP Virtual Machine Configuration Manager icon synthesizes three distinct elements - settings (gear), cloud computing (cloud), and network storage (rack) - into a single, instantly recognizable symbol.

Industry Recognition

The Axiom Storage Service Manager, launched in early 2011, received immediate industry acclaim, winning the prestigious Best Cloud Storage Solution award. This success contributed to Oracle's acquisition of Pillar Data Systems shortly after the launch, validating the system's innovative approach to storage management.

Global Design Approach

As an enterprise solution deployed worldwide, the interface required a truly international design language. We crafted a visual system that transcends cultural and linguistic boundaries, ensuring consistent interpretation across diverse global markets while avoiding region-specific design elements.